October is National Fall Car Care Month. This month should be spent preparing your car for the harsh conditions in winter ahead. Taking time this October to take care of your car can save you money in the long run by preventing costly emergency breakdowns in winter. Whether you’re a repair shop or auto body shop, you may want to let customers know about this month and offer them an incentive to get in before the month is over. Here are 8 winter car maintenance duties that should done before October ends.

1.Check all of the vehicle’s fluids. This includes power steering, brake fluid, engine oil, and antifreeze. Having adequate antifreeze is especially important in winter.

2.Check brakes and change them if need be. Having faulty brakes in the winter can be deadly to the customer and other drivers.

3.Check the tires and switch over to winter ones if the customer wants to buy them. Things to check on the tires are tread depth and pressure. Improperly inflated tires are more likely to slide on ice.

4.Check the HVAC system. The heat and defroster must work properly to drive safely in cold weather.

5.Replace worn windshield wipers so there is no vision obstruction while driving in winter precipitation. Remind the customer to also stock up on deicing windshield washer fluid.

6.Remind the customer to carry a winter emergency kit that includes, blankets, a shovel, sand, food, a first aid kit, and water.

7.Check the battery for wear and also test the charge. The connectors should be tight and free of corrosion. Replace the battery if the charge is low. Batteries have a tendency to drain faster in the winter so remind the customer that it could be a good idea to keep a jump box in the vehicle.

8.Check interior and exterior lighting. You need to be able to see clearly inside and outside of the vehicle during storms and lack of winter daylight.